7 Delightful Towns to Visit in the Adirondack Mountains

The Adirondack Mountains comprise a number of high peaks, vast forests, and pristine lakes in the far reaches of upstate New York. It presents a natural escape from the hustle and bustle of nearby coastal metropolises like New York City and exemplifies the best of what the Empire State has to offer. Due to its mountainous terrain, not a whole lot of populous cities or towns exist in the Adirondacks, making it a haven for small towns and the kind of charm that comes along with those types of communities. Learn more about seven of the most delightful towns you can visit in the renowned Adirondack Mountains.

Newcomb

With a population of less than 500 permanent residents, Newcomb is truly a place to find solitude in the Adirondacks. The town is home to the Adirondack Interpretive Centers, a center that provides educational exhibits on the region's unique natural environments and wildlife. The center's nature trails and interactive displays also give you a chance to explore the local flora and fauna in a more hands-on way, making it a great place to bring the whole family.

Newcomb's natural attractions also include the nearby Blue Mountain, which has a popular hiking trail leading to a summit with sweeping views of the surrounding wilderness. The area around Newcomb is also known for its fishing spots and tranquil lakes, perfect for canoeing and kayaking. Harris Lake and Rich Lake are perfectly located right outside of town, both lakes having access to Route 28N.

In winter, Newcomb becomes a prime destination for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, with several maintained trails that weave through the local forests.

Lake Placid

Lake Placid is perhaps the most famous town in the Adirondack Mountains, known for hosting the Winter Olympics twice, in 1932 and 1980, and for being the setting for the famous monster movie, which shares its name with the town (don't worry, giant crocodiles do not live anywhere near New York). Notable Olympic sites, including the iconic ski jumps and the Olympic Center, provide a detailed look into the town's storied past with the athletic event.

The surrounding High Peaks contain numerous hiking trails leading to some of the most breathtaking vistas in the region. Right in town, however, is Mirror Lake, a perfect spot for kayaking and paddleboarding (with rentals available nearby) or simply enjoying a stroll on the path that circumnavigates its shores.

Winter sees just as much buzz in Lake Placid as summer, with world-class ski resorts within a short distance. Whiteface Mountain is the most popular downhill option, while the Jackrabbit Trail attracts cross-country skiers from around the state.

Tupper Lake

The town sits on the shores of the expansive Tupper Lake, drawing kayakers, canoers, fishing enthusiasts, and boaters of all kinds.

One of its standout attractions is The Wild Center, a natural history museum that immerses its visitors in the ecology of the Adirondacks. The museum’s Wild Walk, an elevated trail through the treetops, is sure to give you a unique perspective on the surrounding forest. This educational center is a must-visit, especially for families looking for educational fun in the great outdoors.

The nearby Adirondack Sky Center and Observatory is another way to learn a thing or two about science at Tupper Lake. With very little light pollution in and around town, this destination will allow you to explore the night sky detail in one of the darkest regions of the Northeast.

Saranac Lake

This small town, with a longstanding history as a health resort in the late 19th century, still preserves its relaxing charm to this day. With several resorts and rental cottages close by, Saranac Lake continues to heal with stress-relieving locales.

In the summer, paddlers and anglers flock to the nearby chain of lakes, including the Upper, Middle, and Lower Saranac Lakes, Oseetah Lake, Lake Flower, and several others. Hikers can also explore nearby peaks such as Baker Mountain for unobscured views of the wilderness around it.

Winter transforms Saranac Lake into a snowy wonderland, attracting ice fishermen on the nearby lakes, cross-country skiers, and snowshoers. The annual Saranac Lake Winter Carnival, the oldest in the eastern US, tends to feature impressive ice sculptures and a variety of family-friendly events.

Old Forge

Situated on the edge of the Fulton Chain of Lakes, Old Forge is a hub for year-round recreation. With excellent access to the Adirondack Park’s extensive trail system, including the popular Bald Mountain Trail, Old Forge is a delight for anyone looking for a more active outing in the Adirondacks.

Olde Forge is known by most as the home of Enchanted Forest Water Safari, the largest water park in the state of New York. This park holds dozens of rides and is an exciting way to easily fill up an afternoon.

For a watery adventure that is a little less commercial, the Fulton Chain of Lakes is a short trip north of town and is widely sought after as a destination for fishing and multi-day canoe trips. Moreover, the nearby Black River Wild Forest and Ha-De-Ron-Dah Wilderness are full of trails and swimming holes, making them popular places to go during the summer months.

In winter, Old Forge becomes a hotspot for snow sports, with miles of groomed trails for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. Shops like North Street Power Sports are conveniently located downtown to keep your snowmobile running no matter what.

Indian Lake

A highlight of Indian Lake is the Adirondack Experience’s Indian Lake Museum, which focuses on this specific region’s history all the way back to its establishment in 1858. The museum includes exhibits on the area's early American settlers, logging industry, and traditional crafts that can be made with locally sourced materials.

Many come here in the summer and fall months to enjoy spots like Indian Lake Beach and cozy rental cabins at Adirondack Lake Cabins. A bit north of Indian Lake is Sawyer Mountain, with a trail that takes you to its summit and provides unbeatable views that are particularly nice when the leaves begin to change color in October.

Winter is no sleepy time for Indian Lake, as the area becomes a hotspot for snowmobiling and ice fishing, with well-maintained trails and deeply frozen lakes surrounding the town. Adirondack Lake, Lake Abanakee, and, the sizeable Indian Lake are all close by.

Warrensburg

Warrensburg is located at the far southern edge of the Adirondacks, making it easier to access for those coming up from New York City than many of the other towns in the region. A selection of natural attractions, including the beautiful Schroon Lake, the Schroon River, the Hudson River, Lake George, and the surrounding forested areas, are popular for hiking, fishing, and canoeing. The town’s location also provides access to scenic parks like Cat and Thomas Mountains Preserves, Hudson River Recreation Area, and Warrensburg Travel Park, the latter of which features campsites for both RVs and traditional tents. Lake George Riverview Campground is another option for staying outdoors during the night.

Explore the quaint downtown area of Warrensburg, too, with its many shops, restaurants, and other useful amenities. The Warrensburgh Museum of Local History is a fun and informative way to learn about this town and the area around it, while the nearby riverfront along the Schroon River is an excellent setting for an easy walk through town.

Experience the Joys of The Adirondack Mountains

Start planning your trip to the wonderful Adirondack Mountains of New York. Whether it is the seclusion of towns like Newcomb or relatively easy-to-reach Warrington, there are numerous choices to fit your needs. Regardless, all of these places were specially chosen for the laid-back vibes, variety of things to see and do, and serene setting that heavily contrast the often hectic life in the big city. Winter or summer, load up your car and embark on a memorable adventure in the not-too-far wildernesses of the Empire State this year!